Turkish Prime Minister Ragab Tayeb Erdogan made an unprecedented visit to al-Azhar to offer support for the Sheikdom's role in spreading moderate Islam, particularly during the politically sensitive time in the Middle East. The Grand Imam of al-Azhar Ahmed al-Tayeb received the Turkish Prime Minister on Tuesday. Al-Azhar officials and members of the Turkish delegation with Erdogan attended the meeting. Ergodan spoke with al-Tayeb and offered his appreciation for the Grand Imam's role in the spread of moderate Islam. “Egypt and Turkey look forward to the spread of moderate Islam, particularly since both countries have historically rejected extremism,” Ergodan said. He also added that 650 students study at al-Azhar. “Turkey wants to spread the moderate message and maintain its role as a model of moderate Islam,” he added. Ergodan asked al-Tayeb to visit Turkey and participate in international Islamic conferences, and praised the institution's document designed to end controversy in Egypt. He also praised the January 25 Revolution and called on all Egyptians to maintain the goals and achievements of the popular uprising. The Turkish Prime Minister urged parties to increase cooperation between the Turkish and Egyptian Ministries of Awqaf (Religious Affairs), and he suggested enhanced participation between al-Azhar University and Turkish universities. While welcoming the Prime Minister, the al-Azhar Grand Imam praised Erdogan's moderate policies in Turkey, which helped spur notable development. Earlier in the day, members of the Muslim Brotherhood met the Turkish officials at Cairo International Airport to welcome them and support their decision to expel the Israeli ambassador to Ankara.
